Help us celebrate 40 years of the Birmingham Super Prix
Forty years ago, the streets of Birmingham witnessed something extraordinary.
Over the August Bank Holiday weekend in 1986, the Birmingham Super Prix made history as Britain’s first major street race on mainland public roads. For five unforgettable years, from 1986 to 1990, Formula 3000 cars thundered through the heart of the city, racing along Bristol Street, Belgrave Middleway, Pershore Street and Sherlock Street at speeds approaching 180mph.
For those who were there, it was a sight and sound never forgotten.
Now, as part of the Brum Transport Fest 2026, we’re celebrating the Super Prix’s 40th anniversary with a new free outdoor exhibition in Birmingham city-centre, and we need your help to tell its story.
Were you there?
Whether you watched from the barriers, volunteered behind the scenes, worked in a city centre business, attended with family or simply remember the excitement that swept across Birmingham each August Bank Holiday, we’d love to hear from you.
We’re looking for:
- Personal memories of the Birmingham Super Prix
- Photographs from the races and related events
- Quotes and stories from spectators, volunteers, businesses and participants
- Family stories passed down through generations
No memory is too small. Sometimes it’s the personal moments that bring history to life.
One of Birmingham’s most remarkable stories
The creation of the Birmingham Super Prix followed almost 25 years of determination, vision and campaigning. What began as an ambitious idea in the early 1960s eventually became reality thanks to the efforts of local champions, including Councillor Peter Barwell and racing driver Martin Hone. Making the event possible even required a change in the law through an Act of Parliament.
The result was one of the most ambitious civic projects Birmingham has ever undertaken.
Future Formula One stars including Damon Hill, Jean Alesi and Eddie Irvine all raced on Birmingham’s streets, helping to cement the Super Prix’s place in motorsport history.
Although the event ran for only five years, it has achieved almost legendary status. Decades later, people still talk about the roar of engines echoing between city centre buildings and the incredible spectacle of seeing racing cars where buses and shoppers would normally be found.
A new exhibition for 2026
Created by Colmore Life and designer Stacey Barnfield, the exhibition will form part of the city-wide Brum Transport Festival, taking place on 18-19 September 2026.
Across 12 large exhibition panels in Birmingham, visitors will be able to explore the complete story of the Birmingham Super Prix, from the earliest campaigning efforts and legislative battles through to the famous races and their lasting legacy.
Featuring rarely seen photographs, newspaper headlines and archive material, the exhibition will celebrate not only the racing itself but also the ambition, determination and vision that made it possible.
By sharing your memories, you can help ensure this remarkable chapter of Birmingham’s history is preserved for future generations.
Submit your memory
Were you there?
Share your photographs, stories, quotes and memories of the Birmingham Super Prix using the form below and help us create a community record of one of the city’s most extraordinary events.
Submit your memories, images or quotes below.
